ways now to participate in the offertory. Some people put cash in the basket, others write a check, some use the parish envelopes while many now will make their donation through EFT – Electronic Fund Transfer. Many parishes offer this option now for greater convenience. Whatever manner we choose to use, we should always hear the words of St. Paul echo in our ears that “God loves a cheerful giver.” (See 2 Corinthians 9:6-15) We give generously out of gratitude to God, who is so loving and generous to us. Our gift at Mass will help with the needs of the parish and support those in need. After the collection we bring our gifts of bread and wine to the altar. This brings to mind an ancient scene from Genesis 14 where the priest-king Melchizedek offers gifts of bread and wine and Abram offers the priest a tenth of everything. The Catechism of the Catholic Church, in paragraph 1350 says this: “The presentation of the offerings at the altar takes up the gesture of Melchizedek and commits the Creator’s gifts into the hands of Christ who, in his sacrifice, brings to perfection all human attempts to offer sacrifice.” For further study: CCC 1350 • 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 • Genesis 14:17-24 45 The Offertory The second part of the Mass, the Liturgy of the Eucharist, begins with the offertory. This is the time when we get to exercise our “generosity muscles.” There are many different Notes
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